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Shepherdstown Middle School, Jefferson High School join area schools for Region IX Concert Festival

By Ainsley Hall - For the Chronicle | Apr 7, 2023

Hedgesville High School’s concert band practices before its performance at the Region IX Concert Festival at Musselman High School last week. Ainsley Hall

INWOOD — Bands from around the Eastern Panhandle participated in the Region IX Concert Festival at Musselman High School last week during Music in Our Schools Month.

During the festival, which took place Wednesday and Thursday, school bands throughout the region got to participate and play in front of judges, who gave them scores based on their performance.

Michael Knepper, Musselman High School music teacher and band director, has been in charge of the festival for the past 19 years. He started as a young director and helped develop many different students throughout his career.

“I had a great experience in high school,” Knepper said. “I had some great teachers who supported me and encouraged my love for music. Because of that, I wanted to pay it forward. I also believe that music is an essential part in schools. Students enjoy doing it, and it’s good for their mental health and their soul.”

Throughout this two-day event, 29 different schools performed two pieces chosen by the band director that they have practiced throughout the school year.

Wednesday’s performances included Martinsburg High School, Hedgesville High School, Washington High School, Jefferson High School, Berkeley Spring High School, Musselman High School, Spring Mills High School, Frankfort High School, Hampshire High School, Keyser High School, Moorefield High School, East Hardy High School, Paw Paw Middle School and Paw Paw High School.

Thursday’s performances included Mountain Ridge Middle School, Martinsburg South Middle School, Wildwood Middle School, Harper’s Ferry Middle School, Hedgesville Middle School, Capon Bridge Middle School, Shepherdstown Middle School, Martinsburg North Middle School, Warm Springs Middle School, Spring Mills Middle School, Charles Town Middle School, St. Joseph School, Romney Middle School, Frankfort Middle School, Keyser Middle School, Pendleton County Middle School and Pendelton County High School.

“Kids get to show everything they’ve learned so far and practice the fundamentals,” Knepper said. “It gives both the students and the directors the opportunity to grow and improve their abilities.”

This year is Knepper’s last year planning and running the event.

“I’m handing over the reins to Casey Adams,” Knepper said. “I thought it was time to let someone else spread their wings. She is very enthusiastic and is the right person to help teach the next generation of students.”

Parents and members of the community were welcomed to come listen to the bands and support music in the schools throughout the Eastern Panhandle.

“Thank you, Musselman High School, for hosting this event for the past two decades,” Knepper said. “And thank you to the community for supporting music in our schools. I think it’s extremely important for students’ development.”